50 University Provosts and Deputy Vice-Chancellors Across Australia and New Zealand
Last updated: August 2026
Introduction
This list brings together 50 university provosts and deputy vice-chancellors working across higher education institutions in Australia and New Zealand. It includes academic, education, research, Indigenous, Māori, Pacific, global engagement and university services leaders whose current roles sit close to the decisions that shape university life.
The titles vary between institutions. Some universities use provost for their senior academic deputy, while others use several deputy vice-chancellors to lead education, research, engagement, culture or operations. That variety is part of the point: university leadership is not one job, and the work is rarely contained inside one portfolio.
The people below are presented as a practical directory for anyone working with universities, higher education policy, academic leadership, student experience, research partnerships or institutional change. Each entry names the person's current role, institution and one useful detail about the portfolio they carry.
Why University Provosts and Deputy Vice-Chancellors Matter
Provosts and deputy vice-chancellors turn a university's broad purpose into choices about teaching, research, people, partnerships, student support and resource use. They work between strategy and delivery, translating the work of councils and vice-chancellors into priorities that faculties, professional teams and students can feel.
The role is also changing. Universities are balancing academic quality with financial pressure, new forms of learning, artificial intelligence, international relationships, Indigenous and Māori obligations, student wellbeing and the need to show public value. A senior leader who can connect those issues across the institution has an unusually wide field of influence.
This is why the list includes more than traditional academic provosts. Research, education, community, global engagement, Indigenous and operational portfolios all shape the conditions in which universities teach, discover and serve their communities.
The People
1. Mark Blows
Provost and Senior Vice-President, The University of Queensland
Mark Blows is Provost and Senior Vice-President at The University of Queensland. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
His office leads UQ's academic capability, strategic planning and university budget process. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
2. Kris Ryan
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), The University of Queensland
Kris Ryan is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at The University of Queensland. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He has led work in student success, learning spaces and education technology, including an eAssessment platform. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
3. Annamarie Jagose
Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, The University of Sydney
Annamarie Jagose is Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost at The University of Sydney. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She oversees academic enterprise, strategic planning and performance across Sydney's faculties and centres. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
4. Joanne Wright
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students), The University of Sydney
Joanne Wright is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students) at The University of Sydney. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Her portfolio covers curriculum renewal, digital learning, academic quality and student wellbeing. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
5. Lucy Marshall
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Community and Leadership), The University of Sydney
Lucy Marshall is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Community and Leadership) at The University of Sydney. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She leads the university's culture, leadership and diversity, equity and inclusion direction. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
6. Mike Ryan
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), The University of Sydney
Mike Ryan is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) at The University of Sydney. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He joined Sydney after research leadership at Monash and leads research strategy, performance and partnerships. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
7. Rebekah Brown
Provost and Senior Vice-President, The Australian National University
Rebekah Brown is Provost and Senior Vice-President at The Australian National University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She leads ANU's academic portfolio while also serving as Interim Vice-Chancellor and President during a period of transition. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
8. Joan Leach
Acting Provost and Senior Vice-President, The Australian National University
Joan Leach is Acting Provost and Senior Vice-President at The Australian National University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She was appointed Acting Provost and Senior Vice-President in May 2026 after serving as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education). That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
9. Stuart Wyithe
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), The Australian National University
Stuart Wyithe is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) at The Australian National University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He officially took up the research and innovation portfolio in May 2026 after leading the ANU Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
10. Joanne Cys
Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Adelaide University
Joanne Cys is Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Adelaide University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Her portfolio provides strategic leadership across Adelaide University's academic enterprise, colleges, schools and regional campuses. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
11. John Williams
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Adelaide University
John Williams is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at Adelaide University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He was appointed as one of Adelaide University's first deputy vice-chancellors as the new institution began operations. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
12. Jessica Gallagher
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, International and External Engagement, Adelaide University
Jessica Gallagher is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, International and External Engagement at Adelaide University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Her role connects the new university with international partners and external communities during its formation. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
13. Anton Middelberg
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation, Adelaide University
Anton Middelberg is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation at Adelaide University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He was selected to help build research and innovation leadership at Australia's newest major university. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
14. Liz Burd
Provost, Griffith University
Liz Burd is Provost at Griffith University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Universities Australia's current contacts identify her as Griffith's provost, a role sitting at the centre of academic leadership. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
15. Shaun Ewen
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education), Griffith University
Shaun Ewen is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) at Griffith University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
His portfolio places teaching, learning and the student experience inside Griffith's senior executive work. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
16. Lee Smith
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Griffith University
Lee Smith is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) at Griffith University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He leads the research portfolio at a large comprehensive university with a strong public mission. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
17. Robina Xavier
Provost, Queensland University of Technology
Robina Xavier is Provost at Queensland University of Technology. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Her role is part of QUT's senior executive structure and connects academic delivery with university strategy. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
18. Paula McDonald
Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President Research, Queensland University of Technology
Paula McDonald is Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President Research at Queensland University of Technology. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Her portfolio joins research leadership with the external responsibilities of a vice-president. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
19. Wesley Enoch
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Australians, Queensland University of Technology
Wesley Enoch is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Australians at Queensland University of Technology. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
His portfolio places Indigenous leadership and engagement at the centre of QUT's senior executive work. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
20. Catherine Itsiopoulos
Deputy Vice-Chancellor STEM College and Vice-President, RMIT University
Catherine Itsiopoulos is Deputy Vice-Chancellor STEM College and Vice-President at RMIT University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She leads RMIT's STEM College and contributes to university-wide academic leadership as a Vice-President. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
21. Calum Drummond
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) and Vice-President, RMIT University
Calum Drummond is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) and Vice-President at RMIT University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
His portfolio links research and innovation with RMIT's broader executive and external engagement work. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
22. Sherman Young
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) and Vice-President, RMIT University
Sherman Young is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) and Vice-President at RMIT University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He leads education at RMIT while also carrying the external responsibilities of a vice-president. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
23. Jessica Vanderlelie
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Deakin University
Jessica Vanderlelie is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at Deakin University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She provides strategic leadership for Deakin's education agenda, student learning experience and student support. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
24. David Halliwell
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Partnerships, Deakin University
David Halliwell is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Partnerships at Deakin University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He leads Deakin's partnerships work across student markets, governments, industry and communities. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
25. Mark Ogden
Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Curtin University
Mark Ogden is Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at Curtin University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He is the current interim academic deputy on Curtin's Senior Executive Team, supporting the University's learning and teaching portfolio. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
26. Xiaotian Zhang
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Global, Curtin University
Xiaotian Zhang is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Global at Curtin University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
His work focuses on internationalisation and the strategic development of globally connected universities. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
27. Jonathan Bullen
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous, Curtin University
Jonathan Bullen is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous at Curtin University. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He returned to Curtin to become its inaugural Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous after earlier Indigenous leadership there. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
28. Tim Colmer
Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, The University of Western Australia
Tim Colmer is Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor at The University of Western Australia. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He is the senior deputy in UWA's executive team, supporting whole-university leadership alongside the Vice-Chancellor. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
29. Anna Nowak
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), The University of Western Australia
Anna Nowak is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) at The University of Western Australia. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She leads UWA's research portfolio from a background in medicine, clinical practice and university leadership. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
30. Guy Littlefair
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Student Experience), The University of Western Australia
Guy Littlefair is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Student Experience) at The University of Western Australia. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
His portfolio brings education and student experience together in UWA's senior executive. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
31. Jennifer Howell
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement), The University of Western Australia
Jennifer Howell is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement) at The University of Western Australia. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Her work includes strategic education innovations such as learning platforms, micro-credentials and international pathways. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
32. Jill Milroy
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous), The University of Western Australia
Jill Milroy is Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) at The University of Western Australia. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Her position makes Indigenous leadership a defined part of UWA's executive structure and future direction. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
33. Natalie Brown
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Launceston), University of Tasmania
Natalie Brown is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Launceston) at University of Tasmania. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She combines academic leadership with responsibility for the Launceston campus and its regional connections. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
34. Kate Huntington
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Student Services and Operations, University of Tasmania
Kate Huntington is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Student Services and Operations at University of Tasmania. Across Australian higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She is responsible for making university operations support academic priorities and user-centred services for students and staff. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
35. Alister Jones
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Waikato
Alister Jones is Deputy Vice-Chancellor at University of Waikato. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He leads international engagement, Asia-Pacific delivery and the development of Waikato's Tauranga campus. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
36. Jennifer Milam
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, University of Waikato
Jennifer Milam is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at University of Waikato. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She was appointed in 2024 after senior tertiary leadership in Australia and the United States. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
37. Sarah-Jane Tiakiwai
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori, University of Waikato
Sarah-Jane Tiakiwai is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori at University of Waikato. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Her work brings Māori leadership and research experience into Waikato's executive direction. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
38. Gary Wilson
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, University of Waikato
Gary Wilson is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at University of Waikato. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He joined Waikato after serving as Chief Scientist and General Manager Research Strategy and Partnerships at GNS Science. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
39. Sarah Young
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education, University of Auckland
Sarah Young is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education at University of Auckland. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She provides strategic leadership for learning, teaching, curriculum and academic standards across the university. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
40. Simon Holdaway
Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, University of Auckland
Simon Holdaway is Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation at University of Auckland. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He is serving in the interim role while the university moves through its vice-chancellor transition, before returning to research performance leadership. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
41. Erik Lithander
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Strategic Engagement, University of Auckland
Erik Lithander is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Strategic Engagement at University of Auckland. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
His portfolio includes internationalisation, alumni, fundraising, marketing, recruitment, engagement and sustainability. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
42. Wendy Lawson
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Auckland University of Technology
Wendy Lawson is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at Auckland University of Technology. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She leads AUT's learning and teaching portfolio as part of its executive leadership team. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
43. Mark Orams
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, Auckland University of Technology
Mark Orams is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at Auckland University of Technology. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He leads research at AUT as the university connects applied scholarship with its wider public mission. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
44. Paora Ammunson
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori, Massey University
Paora Ammunson is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori at Massey University. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He brings tertiary education, government, iwi and commercial leadership experience to Massey's Tiriti-led work. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
45. Tere McGonagle-Daly
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Students and Global Engagement and University Registrar, Massey University
Tere McGonagle-Daly is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Students and Global Engagement and University Registrar at Massey University. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He oversees student services, offshore programmes and university registration across Massey's campuses. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
46. Shelley Turner
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University Services, Massey University
Shelley Turner is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University Services at Massey University. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She leads corporate services including finance, people, technology and estates across three campuses. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
47. James Maclaurin
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, University of Otago
James Maclaurin is Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic at University of Otago. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He is an AI and public policy scholar serving as Otago's interim academic deputy in 2026. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
48. Greg Cook
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation, University of Otago
Greg Cook is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation at University of Otago. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
He returned to Otago in 2025 to lead research and innovation after senior research leadership elsewhere. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
49. Jessica Palmer
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, External Engagement, University of Otago
Jessica Palmer is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, External Engagement at University of Otago. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
Her portfolio focuses on the university's outward relationships, profile and connections with students and communities. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
50. Jacinta Ruru
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Māori, University of Otago
Jacinta Ruru is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Māori at University of Otago. Across New Zealand higher education, this is a direct fit for a list about senior university leadership because the role sits close to the institution's academic mission, planning and delivery.
She was appointed Otago's inaugural Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori and provides strategic advice on Te Tiriti across university operations. That matters because it shows how a senior portfolio becomes practical work: setting direction, connecting people and resources, and helping a complex institution make progress without losing sight of its students and communities.
What These Leaders Show Us About University Leadership
The first pattern is breadth. A provost may carry academic performance and planning, while a deputy vice-chancellor may hold education, research, Indigenous leadership, global engagement or university services. Those portfolios are different, but each one depends on working across boundaries rather than protecting a single silo.
The second pattern is translation. The leaders in this directory work between high-level strategy and the daily reality of faculties, professional teams, researchers and students. The useful question is not only what a portfolio owns, but how it helps the rest of the university make better decisions.
The third pattern is place. Australian universities are navigating distinct regional, Indigenous and public responsibilities. New Zealand universities are doing the same through relationships with Māori and Pacific communities, Te Tiriti commitments and the needs of their regions. Strong university leadership pays attention to those relationships instead of treating the institution as interchangeable with any other.
How to Use This List
Use the directory as a map, not as a substitute for current institutional context. If you are preparing a partnership proposal, begin with the portfolio that owns the decision and then read the university's current strategy, structure and public priorities.
If you are developing your own leadership practice, compare how different portfolios describe their work. Ask what each leader must balance, which relationships make the role effective and what would be lost if the portfolio operated alone.
If you work inside higher education, use the names as prompts for better questions. What does student success mean here? How are research partnerships built? Where does Indigenous or Māori leadership sit? Which parts of the strategy need clearer ownership?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a university provost do? A university provost is usually a senior academic leader who helps guide teaching, research, faculties and academic planning. The exact role varies by institution, and some universities use provost as another name for a senior deputy vice-chancellor.
What is a deputy vice-chancellor responsible for? A deputy vice-chancellor leads a defined university-wide portfolio. Common portfolios include education, research, students, global engagement, Indigenous or Māori leadership, Pacific engagement, community and university services.
Are provosts and deputy vice-chancellors the same role? They can be similar, but not always. A provost often carries the senior academic brief, while deputy vice-chancellors may lead specific portfolios. Each university's leadership structure is the best guide to the real scope of the job.
Why do university leadership titles differ between Australia and New Zealand? Titles reflect each institution's history, governance model and current priorities. The differences are useful because they show where a university has chosen to place responsibility for academic quality, research, community, culture, students or operations.
Conclusion
University provosts and deputy vice-chancellors carry the work of making higher education coherent. They connect purpose with practice, specialist portfolios with whole-of-university choices, and institutional strategy with the people who experience it.
The most useful way to read this list is to look for the leadership work beneath the title. Notice what each portfolio protects, what it must balance and which relationships make delivery possible. Then take one question from the list into your next leadership conversation and write down what a better answer would change.
Related Reading
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About the Author
Jonno White is a Brisbane-based leadership consultant, keynote speaker and Certified Working Genius Facilitator, and the author of Step Up or Step Out. He works with schools, corporates and nonprofits around the world. To enquire about a keynote, workshop or facilitated leadership session, email jonno@consultclarity.org.